New Stroke Guidelines Highlight Increased Risks for Women

The American Stroke Association's updated guidelines emphasize unique stroke risk factors for women, including hormonal changes and menopause.

The American Stroke Association has published updated guidelines that focus on sex-specific stroke risk factors for women.
Key risk factors include pregnancy, early menopause, endometriosis, and the use of hormonal contraceptives.
Women using birth control with high doses of estrogen are at a higher risk of stroke, while those using lower doses face reduced risk.
Experts emphasize the importance of individualized menopause hormone therapy, which generally involves lower hormone doses than contraceptives.
Preventive strategies for stroke include managing blood pressure, cholesterol, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with particular attention to unique female risk factors.